Betty Joe (Ott) Williams

Betty Joe Williams, a beloved member of the Glen Burnie, Maryland community, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28th, 2025, at the age of 90. Born in South Carolina on Saturday, May 25th, 1935, Betty’s life was a testament to love, laughter, and dedication to family and education.

Betty pursued her passion for education, earning a Bachelor’s degree, and went on to inspire countless young minds as an elementary school teacher in Savannah, Georgia, beginning in 1950. Her nurturing nature extended beyond the classroom, as she later transitioned into retail sales at Sears in Glen Burnie. Dedicated and hardworking, Betty proudly served from 1986 until her retirement in 2002, completing 16 years of service.

In her personal life, Betty was known for her vivacious spirit and her love for simple joys. An avid reader with a keen eye for people-watching, she found happiness in her neighborhood interactions and cherished her TV shows. Betty also had a penchant for sweets, from Peanut M&M's to her signature pecan pie, and she never failed to indulge her grandchildren with special 7-11 breakfast outings.

Despite life’s adversities, Betty remained the life of the party, lightening any room with her candid humor and unpredictable wit. Those who knew her will fondly remember her fierce love and devotion to her family, always putting her grandchildren first and ensuring her home was filled with laughter and joy.

Betty is survived by her two loving children, daughter Arlene O. Gassman and son James L. Williams. She leaves behind a legacy in her cherished grandchildren: Liz, Megan, Cadie, James, and CJ, and great-granddaughters Mckenzie, Josephine, and Abigail.

She was preceded in death by her father, Hampie Friarson Ott, her mother, Annie Arlene Ott, her dear husband, James L. Williams Sr., and her brother, Hampton Ott.

Friends and family are invited to say their final goodbyes during the visitation and funeral service to be held at Stallings Funeral Home in Pasadena, Maryland on Friday, August 1st, 2025. Visitation will take place from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by the funeral service starting at 12:00 pm. Interment will take place immediately following funeral services at Cedar Hill Cemetery. 

Betty will be greatly missed, but her spirit and love will continue to live on in the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.